Prachin Stavanavali - Book Summary

This document is a collection of Jain devotional songs (stavan) and hymns, titled "Prachin Stavanavali" (Collection of Ancient Devotional Songs).

Key information presented:

Author/Compiler: Rampal Yati (यति श्रीरामपालजी)
Publisher: Umravsinh Dungariya (उमरावसिंहजी डूंगरिया) from Delhi.
Purpose: The compiler, Rampal Yati, was inspired to compile this book by Umravsinh Dungariya, who expressed a desire to see the lost or lesser-known works of Jain Acharyas. The book aims to present devotional songs (stavan and dohas) by Acharyas like Shri Rangsuriji, Nandivardhansuri, and Kalyansuri, highlighting their scholarship and devotion.
Content:
- Mangalacharan (Invocation): It begins with a "Navkar Chhand" (hymn in the meter of the Navkar mantra) by Gunsuriji.
- Devotional Songs (Stavans): The majority of the book consists of various stavan dedicated to different Tirthankaras and Jain figures, including:
  - Shri Rangsuriji, Nandivardhansuri, and Kalyansuri.
  - Parshvanath (including a Parshvanath Ashtakam and Gaudi Parshva Jin Stavan).
  - Choubis Jin Stuti (Praise of the 24 Tirthankaras).
  - Adishwar (Rishabhdev) Jin Stavan.
  - Shanti Jin Stavan.
  - Munisuvrat Jin Stavan.
  - Nemnath Stavan.
  - Dadaguru Stavan (Praise of spiritual preceptors, likely referring to the lineage of Acharyas).
- Sajjhay (Spiritual Chants/Songs): The book includes several "Sajjhay" which are devotional songs with a specific meter or tune, such as:
  - "Gyan Sarafi" (Gold of Knowledge).
  - "Dharm Swaroop Sajjhay" (Essence of Dharma).
- Parmaatma Chattisi (Thirty-six Verses on the Supreme Soul): A detailed philosophical explanation of the soul (Atma), its different states (Bahiratm, Antaratm, Paramatm), and the path to liberation through detachment from passions.
- Shri Maloo ki Gotra Sankhya (List of Gotras of the Shri Maloo Community): A significant portion of the book lists numerous gotras (lineages or clans) associated with the Shri Maloo community, attributing their conversion and lineage to Acharya Shri Jindattasuri of the Kharatar Gachchh. This section highlights the historical and social aspects of Jainism within specific communities.
- Other Hymns: The text also includes an "Akshaya Tritiya" reference, indicating the date of completion, and mentions the printing press.
Sponsorship: The publication of the book was entirely sponsored by Umravsinh Dungariya, who used his father's donation fund for this good cause, praising his son's generosity and social spirit.
Compiler's Intent: Rampal Yati expresses his hope that further research will uncover more works of these revered Acharyas, thereby proving their eminence as influential, learned, and self-realized individuals. He also apologizes for any errors in proofreading.

In essence, "Prachin Stavanavali" is a valuable compilation of Jain devotional literature, preserving the hymns and teachings of ancient Jain Acharyas, and serving as a testament to their spiritual and intellectual contributions, while also documenting aspects of community history.